Mergers and acquisitions in the EU low cost carrier market. A Product and Organisation Architecture (POA) approach to identify potential merger partners

As the EU low cost airline sector matures, consolidation is expected. This paper details a three-stage methodology to examine LCCs mergers and acquisition activity. A series of depth interviews with aviation experts concludes that the motives for LCCs to enter mergers and acquisitions are largely similar to those of full service carriers. A key success factor for merging partners is to have similar business models and culture. An analysis of full service and low cost carrier mergers and acquisition activity events shows that the size ratio and degree of network overlap between merging airlines are also independent of airline type. Braxton and BCG analyses of EU LCCs show Ryanair and easyJet to be the only LCCs in the market with strong strategic positions across the markets they serve. Finally, an application of the Product and Organisation Architecture analytical approach was used to compare seven EU LCCs. easyJet and Vueling were found to have the most similar business models and were therefore considered the best strategic fit for a potential merger.